Episode Description
Training hard doesn’t always lead to faster marathon times. In fact, for many runners chasing a new PR or Boston Qualifying time, effort is rarely the missing piece.
In this episode, I’m breaking down eight key lessons I’ve learned from running eight marathons. These are the mindset shifts, execution skills, and training principles that helped me move past marathon plateaus and finally unlock better performances.
If you’ve ever felt stuck despite doing “everything right,” this episode will help you rethink how you train, race, and measure progress.
In this episode, we cover:
Why marathon fitness doesn’t show up linearly and how to spot real progress
The critical role easy running plays in breaking through performance plateaus
How long runs should train execution, not just endurance
Why restraint early in the marathon leads to stronger finishes and faster times
How to interpret fatigue without panicking or overcorrecting
Fueling as a performance skill, not an afterthought
Where real race-day confidence actually comes from
Why breakthroughs often happen when you stop forcing the outcome
This episode is especially helpful for runners who:
Have run multiple marathons but feel stuck at the same finish time
Are chasing a PR or Boston Qualifying standard
Want to train smarter without burning out
Are ready to shift from “working harder” to “executing better”
🎧 Listen now and learn how to turn consistency, patience, and execution into your next marathon breakthrough.
The Fueled Runner Club: https://www.marathonnutritionist.com/thefueledrunnerclub
Where to Listen:
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube Music | YouTube Channel
Connect with us:
Elevateyourrunning and sayrahrunshappy
The Elevate Coaching Team has 1:1 coaching spots available for the spring and fall race seasons! If you love running and want to break through that plateau, run stronger + faster than ever before, we’d love to have you join our team! You can find more information about our coaching packages at https://elevateyourrunning.com/virtual-coaching or email Sara at sara@elevateyourrunning.com
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review! Share your thoughts on how coaching has impacted your journey on social media using #elevateyourrunning.
Do you want to be an inclusive insider? Help support the Elevate Your Running Podcast! Get exclusive content, Sara’s training updates, Q + A coaching advice, and more through this platform!
PARTNER DISCOUNTS AND LINKS:
Dynamic Runner: code SAYRAHRUNSHAPPY for 10% off your subscription
Cheribundi: code ELEVATE for 15% off
RNWY: Use Code Elevate15 for 15% off your order
KETONE-IQ: Your post-run recovery ketones can be found here
Cozy Zero: merino wool running clothes! Save 20% with code SARAM20
LEVELLE GELS - Save 10% on all natural gels using code HAPPYRUNNING10